Judith 13:1 - But when the evening had come, his servants hurried to depart. Bagoas shut the tent outside, and dismissed those who waited from the presence of his lord. They went away to their beds; for they were all weary, because the feast had been long.

Generated Verse: Judith 13:1

What does "Judith 13:1" mean?


This verse from Judith 13:1 sets the stage for Judith's bold and dangerous act of assassinating Holofernes. Let's break it down:

"But when the evening had come, his servants hurried to depart." Evening marks the end of the long and exhausting feast that Holofernes, the Assyrian general, has been hosting. His servants are eager to rest.

"Bagoas shut the tent outside, and dismissed those who waited from the presence of his lord." Bagoas, likely a high-ranking eunuch in Holofernes' service, is in charge of ensuring Holofernes' privacy. He locks the tent (presumably Holofernes' bedchamber) from the outside and sends away the remaining attendants who were on standby. This emphasizes the seclusion Holofernes will have, making him vulnerable.

"They went away to their beds; for they were all weary, because the feast had been long." The servants are tired from the extended celebration. This detail highlights their vulnerability as well. They are too exhausted to be vigilant, and they trust Bagoas' order to leave.

In summary, this verse establishes the following key elements:

Privacy: Holofernes is left completely alone in his tent, creating an opportunity for Judith.
Vulnerability: Holofernes is likely in a drunken stupor after the feast, making him an easier target.
Trust: The servants trust Bagoas and their exhaustion makes them compliant, ensuring no one will interrupt Judith.

This verse is crucial because it creates the specific conditions that allow Judith to carry out her plan. It emphasizes the deliberate act of creating a situation where Judith could act alone without interference. It also heightens the tension, as the reader knows Judith is about to enter Holofernes' tent with a dangerous purpose.

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